(1) When there is reason to believe that a
forest-offence has been committed in respect of any forest-produce, such
produce, together with all tools, boats, carts or cattle used in committing any
such offence, may be seized by any Forest-officer or Police-officer.

(2) Every officer seizing any property under
this section shall place on such property a mark indicating that the same has
been so seized, and shall, as soon as may be, make a report of such seizure to
the Magistrate having jurisdiction to try the offence on account of which the
seizure has been made:

Provided that, when the
forest-produce with respect to which such offence is believed to have been
committed is the property of Government, and the offender is unknown, it shall
be sufficient if the officer makes, as soon as may be, a report of the
circumstances to his official superior.